Hi guys! Thanks for the input. I do have the cam retainer plate, timing gears are still available from Cloyes--- part #2532S. This is the same timing set as used on older 366/427 truck engines. According to older (no disrespect intended) GM guys, the cam is supposed to be ground so as to use standard 18436572 firing order, and the distributor still turns in clockwise direction. Engine is standard rotation, also. You just have to use the correct distributor gear. My question is, why did Chevrolet reccomend the ball bearing distributor? Was it for continuous high RPM use, or did the distributor shaft try to walk up the housing? I am pretty sure that with a factory marine gear drive (2 gear) set-up, and CCW rotation engine, the cam gear is cut the same as a chain driven cam. Wouldn't there have to be a special oil pump if it were the other way around?